Page:The Hare.djvu/87

Rh many members of the fraternity secure occasional rabbits by this method. Fifty years ago the use of the throw-stick was often practised by Scottish poachers, and probably by Englishmen as well. Old Perth residents may perhaps recall a native of their city, who was nicknamed 'Toodle Doodle' by his boon companions. Toodle Doodle has long since gone the way of all flesh. While he lived his fame was great on the countryside. He was a little deformed man, who used to wander about the district in search of hares; as a matter of fact, he depended upon killing these poor animals for his entire livelihood. Of course he carried snares, and understood right well how to manipulate them to the best advantage, no man more so; but his favourite weapon was a short throw-stick. He was always accompanied by a small black terrier, which was accredited with knowing as much about hares as his owner. The dog was trained to drive the hare, when found, to his master, who generally waited for the 'drive' on the edge of a brae. When he judged that the animal had arrived within range, the poacher hurled his throw-stick, aiming it in such a manner that it revolved in the air, and hit the poor hare upon the lower part of the body, generally upon the forelegs. The crippled animal was soon pinned by the terrier,